Kona, Island of Hawaii

Overview

Commonly referred to as the Big Island, the Island of Hawaii is the largest of all the Hawaiian Islands – and there are a wide variety of ways to experience it. Hawaii has 10 climate zones, ranging from volcanic desert to snow-capped mountain and rain forest. But no matter where you are on the island, you’ll be captivated by its warm hospitality, gorgeous beaches, great accommodations and breathtaking attractions.

As you land, you'll see endless fields of black lava rock, providing an unusually beautiful welcome mat. Large areas of the coast and interior are covered in thick green vegetation. The black-sand beaches are calm and comfortable, and the ocean is a sparkling blue. Travellers looking for traditional island fun are well taken care of here. But if you're the kind of person who wants a little dash of adventure alongside luxury, the Big Island is also the perfect spot for you.

The Big Island has some of the calmest beaches in the state, making it better for wading toddlers than hardcore surfers. But don’t let that keep you out of the water. The snorkelling and scuba diving here are fantastic and the deep-sea fishing is world class.

If you head inland, you'll find that cattle ranches are plentiful here. You can even enjoy a fresh-picked pineapple for breakfast and local, grass-fed beef for lunch.

And while the island has its share of luxury mega-resorts, it is equally suited to the traveller who has a pair of hiking boots and knows how to use them. The mountainous terrain makes for ideal hiking and if you drive mountain-to-beach, it’s possible to go from parka country to bikini weather in less than two hours. Some might say the Big Island is the best of both worlds.

Kona is a fantastic destination for:

Destination basics

Hawaii's climate is actually composed of 10 different zones on one island. From tropical, to desert, to glacial, Hawaii has it all. Within 50 km, annual rainfall totals can range from 25 centimetres to more than three metres. So in that sense, "How's the weather?" can be a hard question to answer!

Fortunately, there are a few guidelines. The Kailua-Kona (western) side of the island is warm, dry and sunny. Temperatures reach the mid-20s here, even in the winter. The sun is almost always shining and the breezes are typically soft.

If you journey to the interior, temperatures decrease by about 6 C for every 1,000 metres of elevation. Mauna Kea, the highest point on the island, is 4,200 metres high and experiences regular snowfall.

More than any other tropical destination, you’ll need to be ready for just about anything on the Big Island. So bring your umbrella and a coat, or just stay near Kona and you'll never need much more than a bathing suit and some sunscreen.

Culture

Geologically speaking, the Big Island is the youngest of the Hawaiian Islands. Yet, when it comes to the history of Hawaiian culture, Big Island towers over its neighbours. The man who would eventually become King Kamehameha the Great was born here and it was from this island that he launched many battles, allowing him to unify all of the islands under his rule. Kamehameha moved the islands into modernity, clarifying the island nation's system of law, taxation and land ownership.

Today, it is still possible to visit Kamehameha's birth site, his personal temple (known as a heiau) and what some claim is the beach he visited when he wanted to relax.

Living on top of a molten ball of fire has a way of changing people's attitudes about life. From fishing and ranching to coffee production, Big Islanders work hard but understand that life is short. So living a balanced life with plenty of recreation time is taken seriously here. Music and dance are a big part of Big Island life, and it's not uncommon to stumble upon a hula festival or a slack-key guitar demonstration in the park.

Along the coasts, almost everyone has some kind of relationship to the ocean – whether it's deep-sea fishing, canoeing or stand-up paddle boarding. In fact, one of the highest honours here is to be considered a waterman or kane o ke kai.

Although Mauna Kea has not erupted in about 4,500 years, Mauna Loa and Kilauea are still very active. In fact, Kilauea is considered the most active volcano on the planet and its lava often flows into the ocean in a dramatically sizzling fashion. To see the volcanoes' effects firsthand, hike to Kalapana, a fishing village destroyed by lava in 1990.

Living with lava is just a fact of life on the Big Island. People aren't afraid but they are careful to show proper respect to the goddess of volcanoes, Pele. On the Big Island, geology truly is destiny. And when you live in the shadow of the fire goddess, you need to make every minute count.

Currency

It is recommended that you bring U.S. dollars for general expenses. For entertainment and shopping expenses, your credit card will give you the exchange rate at the time of purchase. On the Big Island, you will also find multiple ATMs for your convenience. Please note that transaction fees vary by ATM.

District guide

The Island of Hawai'i is the furthest south of any in the island chain, and it's larger than all the other islands put together. It's also the home of the world's highest mountain (Mauna Kea) though much of the base is submerged. Nearby Kiluaea is the most active volcano in the world, and is also the most popular visitor attraction in a state that's full of visitor attractions. The Big Island, as it's called, is the only place where one can spend the day skiing and then walk barefoot in a warm sea at sundown.

KonaThis sprawling district stretches from South Kona, the location of Honaunau Bay, to the vast Kona State Park. The Kona Airport is located a few miles north of Kailua-Kona on Highway 19. The most heavily populated area is Kailua-Kona - the site of the Kailua Pier, the main tourist shopping drag. Just below Kailua-Kona is Keauhou-Kona. Most of the area hotels are aranged along the coast, from Kailua to Keauhou.

Central Kailua-Kona has a half-dozen attractions, including Ahu'ena Heiau and Hulihe'e Palace. Along the coastline is the Laaloa Beach Park, known for its "magic sands". The southern town of Captain Cook is considered a part of greater Kona. Many people make the trip down the coast to snorkel at the marine preserve or view the sea captain's monument.

Kohala Coast/KohalaThe name translates to "Gold Coast." At first, it's hard to understand why this place deserves its name; the terrain is harsh, barren and almost spooky. That is, until one reaches the resort districts.

The first one is Ka'upulehu, home of the Four Seasons. Further up the road is Waikoloa.

Further along, you'll find Mauna Lani and Mauna Kea. Each resort district has a few four-star hotels, a few luxury condominium complexes and a dozen gourmet restaurants. Along the way, stop by the secluded beach park on the Mauna Lani property where the fabulous Puako Petroglyphs are located. Hapuna Beach Park is another area attraction that sits in splendid isolation on the North Kohala Coast.

After Mauna Kea, things change. Beach parks dot the coastline, and little settlements crop up alongside the highway. The pace of life slows down to correspond with the speed limit. North Kohala is ranch land and coffee country. Take a horseback excursion with Paniolo Adventures, or dine at Café Pesto or Bamboo to make the most of your sojourn.

UpcountryInland from Waikoloa is the town of Waimea. It's small and out-of-the-way, but it has an abundance of personality. Businesses here are usually family-owned, and many of them feature island-made products. This is the domain of the Hawaiian cowboys- the Paniolo. There are several western themed clothing stores in town alongside restaurants and local eateries. Waimea also lies at the nexus of several trails and is a great place from which to embark upon horseback and hiking excursions.

HiloBelow the Hamakua Coast, in a fertile little pocket that gets more rain than just about any other place in the world, is Hilo. This is a booming town by Hawaiian standards. Of course, it knows how it appears to mainland visitors: cute, quaint and stuck in a time warp. It plays up that image, offering historic tours and a daily fish market.

VolcanoSouth of Hilo on Highway 11 is the most famous spot in the islands. Officially titled Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, it is informally known as “The Volcano” or “Kilauea.” Kilauea is, in fact, only a part of the massive park, but it's the part that everyone comes to see. Belching smoke and spewing flame, this is the most active volcano in the world. The Kilauea Visitor Center, Volcano Art Center and Jaggar Museum are open daily.

South & Central RegionsBetween Volcano on the east side and Kona on the west, the island is a vast expanse of untouched volcanic overflow. The majority of it is part of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Above this is the Mauna Kea State Recreation Area - the best stargazing spot in the world and a designated astronomy center. The road to Mauna Kea cannot be navigated in a rental car and its best to hire a local guide.

The southern tip of the island, which is also the southernmost point in the U.S., has barely been touched by civilization. There are a few hotels and a few B&Bs. Travelers to the south shore usually visit the semi-famous Punalu'u Bake Shop & Visitor Center for lunch.

The Big Island really lives up to its nickname. You can drive for hours and see nothing at all. Then, suddenly, you'll stumble on a patch of land so developed that it resembles a strip mall in suburban Nevada. The Kona Coast is a desert, Hilo is a rainforest, and there are palm trees growing out of lava rock on the Kohala Coast. There is skiing on Mauna Kea, while tens of thousands of feet below the snow-capped peak, sea turtles and dolphins play in an ocean as warm as bathwater.

Entertainment

Jungle tours, lava flows, humpback whales, stargazing, Kona coffee—the Big Island is a smorgasbord of sensory delights. Give yourself plenty of time to explore Waipio Valley or to hike the trails of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Take in a sunset over cocktails or a sunrise over fresh island juice. Enjoy traditional Hawaiian-style entertainment at a luau. Experience the best of Hawaii: eco-adventures, art culture and genuine Aloha spirit.

Water Sports and Other Outdoor ActivitiesNotable surfing beaches include Kahalu'u Beach Park, Honoli'i Point and Hilo Bayfront. Scuba schools abound as well. Contact Torpedo Tours, Dolphin Discoveries or Ocean Eco Tours for marine-themed sightseeing packages and outdoor excursions. More involved than snorkeling, but less involved than scuba diving, is the hybrid sport known as ‘snuba'; another popular water sport that can be enjoyed in Hawaii. To rent a Jet Ski, call Aloha Jet Ski.

You can also charter your own fishing boat or go on a fishing cruise, as the options abound. You'll find world-class marlin fishing, among other things. Many fishing boats dock at Honokohau Marina on the West Side of the island.

Aerial tours, paniolo horseback rides and stargazing at Mauna Kea are other popular outdoors activities as are cruises, kayak and canoe tours, and hiking excursions across the Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park.

ShoppingVisit Kings' Shops in Waikoloa for an upscale shopping experience. In the upcountry village of Holualoa, you'll find the highest concentration of galleries on the island. Don't miss Holualoa Gallery. Other funky upcountry shopping centers include Waimea Center. The downtown areas of Volcano Village and Hilo also afford hours of browsing and shopping enjoyment.

Performing Arts & CinemaHawaii may not be known as a nighttime hotspot, but it certainly has its share of entertainment venues. Take in a movie at Keauhou Theatres in Kona, or at Prince Kuhio Theatres. The Palace Theater in Hilo has been a cultural landmark since it was first constructed in 1925 as a movie palace. Restored to its former glory, the theater now hosts arthouse and independent film screenings, concerts and musicals. The Kahilu Theatre is one of the island's better-known theater companies, with a diverse offer of theatrical plays and classical music to look forward to. The Aloha Theater is another popular venue for live entertainment, while the Hawaii Performing Arts Festival brings the Big Island together for a celebration of the arts.

Music & NightlifeWhile the Big Island's nightlife pales in comparison to other island getaways, Hawai'i still boasts an ample array of after-dark escapes that range from laid-back beach bars to lively nightclubs where party-goers dance the night away.

In Kailua Kona, Humpy's Big Island Ale House serves up a staggering variety of brews by the ocean, with nighttime entertainment including live music and great DJs. In Hilo, the First Friday Art Walk is a popular monthly event that brings the city to life. Locals and visitors hop between art galleries, bars and stalls selling locally-made artwork, jewelry and crafts. For entertainment, there's live music, poetry readings and special exhibits galore. The Hilo Town Tavern is a great place to mingle with locals in a laid-back, dive bar setting, while the Kona Brewing Company offers a taste of local brews. For a more spirited evening, try Huggo's on the Rocks and Mask-Querade Bar - one of the Big Island's few gay bars. For live music, Uncle Robert's AWA Club, Ocean's Sports Bar and Pineapples are worth a visit.

LuauAside from their entertainment value, luaus also offer a taste of traditional Hawaiian cuisine. The flavors of Polynesia make these cultural events even more of an enticement. The popular Island Breeze Luau takes place on an idyllic strip of oceanfront property at the Kona Beach Hotel. Other luaus include the Royal Kona Luau and Sunset Luau at the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa.

However you choose to spend your days and nights on the Big Island—commando-hiking through the jungle, sunning by the hotel pool, visiting an active volcano, hanging out at a local bar—you're pretty much guaranteed an interesting time. All the necessary elements of a perfect vacation are within reach, so make your time in Hawaii exactly what you want it to be.

Food and beverage

Thanks to the size of the Island of Hawaii, the restaurant choices can be somewhat challenging. Unlike Maui or Honolulu, there aren't dozens of restaurants within a stone's throw of each other, and usually the ones that are close to each other are also similar to one another in price and quality.

As far as most people are concerned, there are two restaurant scenes on the island: West and East. West is Kona; East is Hilo. There are other regions to the North and South of the island, but people tend to group everything within one category or the other. Even regular travelers or longtime residents usually don't venture off their side of the island too often; the drive is simply too long. For that reason, most popular restaurants have two locations, one in Hilo and one in Kona, Kohala or Waimea.

Kona There are dozens of fantastic restaurants in Kailua-Kona. If you're hungry head to the weekend buffet at the King Kamemameha Hotel which is large and reasonably priced. For a cold beer and some munchies, visit Kona Brewing Company. For a casual meal in a beautiful setting try Huggo's On the Rocks.

The resort areas at Mauna Lani and Mauna Kea offer fine dining choices galore. The CanoeHouse at the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel serves inventive, exotic fare, often made from island-grown produce and fresh local seafood. Brown Beach House is considered to have one of the most stunning views in the state. The Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel offers sumptuous Saturday night buffets. An important note though: The dinner bill at any of the restaurants mentioned above could easily cost more than the hotel bill at many Kailua-Kona or Hilo hotels.

On the other side of the spectrum, inexpensive nibbles can be enjoyed in the food court of the Kings' Shops. You can also sample the finest Pacific Rim cuisine at Roy's.

North/Upcountry Interestingly, many of the island's true culinary jewels have settled quietly, without fanfare or hoopla, in and around the Waimea (Kamuela) area. Merriman's is a Pacific Rim classic. Equally beloved is Bamboo Restaurant & Gallery, located in the sleepy village of Hawi. Cafe Pesto serves Italian-Asian fusion that the critics love.

Upcountry is not like the Kohala Coast though. It's still possible to get an inexpensive meal here. Try the down-home favorite, the Tex Drive In.

Hilo The busy seaside town of Hilo probably has the island's highest concentration of restaurants. Dining options are varied from four-star to fast food. Hilo's Cafe Pesto offers tasty Italian-Pacific creations. Nani Mau Gardens has a great lunch buffet, and the setting can't be beat. Ken's House of Pancakes is open 24 hours a day and is perfect for the whole family.

Volcano

People call the town just outside Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Volcano Village—but the name is a bit misleading. A village this might be, but it's a village that gets more tourist traffic than just about any other place on the planet. It only makes sense that such a place would have a restaurant on every corner. Kilauea Lodge is a popular mountaintop inn that has a gourmet restaurants onsite. A less expensive option is the Volcano's Lava Rock Cafe.

Hawaii's Big Island is the youngest in geologic age, as well as the largest of the Hawaiian Islands and continues to increase in size because of Kilauea, the world's most active volcano.

Two of the tallest mountains in the Pacific reside on the Big Island – Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa.

Orientation

The island of Hawaii is located in the Pacific Ocean, the farthest east of the Hawaiian Islands. It is located about 33 miles (53 kilometers) east of the island of Maui.

Geography

The Big Island's geography is all about volcanoes. The scenery varies from gently sloping hillsides to steep lava cliffs plunging into the ocean. The old lava flows make for dramatic black sand beaches and plains of moonlike terrain. (So moonlike, in fact, Apollo astronauts trained here in preparation for their lunar landings.)

At a mere 800,000 years old, Big Island is the youngest island in the state. And, like most youngsters, it's always growing and changing shape. That's because Mauna Loa and Kilauea are still quite active. As lava hardens, it pushes the coastline further into the ocean. Roads dead-end into rock, towns are forced to relocate and molten fissures open in the earth's surface.

The island is also famous for its lushness of vegetation. Coffee plantations are everywhere and the island has many ferns and other dense foliage.

Historical background

While the oldest Hawaiian island (Kaua'i) was formed some 5.1 million years ago, the Big Island is the newest addition, and is still growing. There were once five active volcanoes contributing to the island's growth: Mauna Kea, Kohala, Hualalai, Kilauea and Mauna Loa. Hualalai last erupted in 1801, while Kilauea and Mauna Loa are still considered active.

By the time Westerners discovered Hawai'i (in the late 18th Century), Polynesians from the Marquesas, Tahiti and the Cook Islands had lived on the islands for more than 1200 years. These island people had traveled over 3500 miles by sea, bringing with them the plant life and animals necessary for their survival. They had established a way of life based around agriculture and a government based around ali'I (chiefs) and kahuna (priests). The system of kapu dictated the rules of society. The Hawaiian people were, for the most part, peaceful. Because there were only a limited number of able-bodied warriors, a fighting lifestyle was not practical. Pre-contact life on the Big Island was quite prosperous. As one of the primary taro producers in the island chain, it managed to maintain a relatively high standard of living through inter-island trade.

The ancient Hawaiians were a highly religious people; many gods and goddesses affected their behavior in everyday life. On the Big Island, the most powerful of these was the Volcano Goddess, Pele. Big Islanders believed that Pele's wrath showed itself in the form of the molten lava that frequently ran down the mountainside and (less frequently) destroyed villages and killed their inhabitants.

January 17, 1779 was the date of Captain James Cook's arrival into Kealakekua Bay. Coincidentally, the British ships sailed into the bay during a celebration known as Makahiki. More than 10,000 Hawaiians had flocked to the area to honor the god Lono. According to Hawaiian legend, Lono was a 'white god' accompanied by white banners-a remarkably similar description to that of Cook, who arrived by sea with his white flags flying. The Big Islanders greeted this British navigator as though he were in fact a god. He was treated with complete deference during the remaining two weeks of Makahiki: entertained, honored and plied with gifts. In return, Cook presented the Hawaiians with gifts and with British-style entertainment (fireworks).

Apparently, the initial goodwill was not enough to maintain peaceable relations between the British and the Islanders. Cook sailed out of Kealakekua, only to turn back due to ship damage. At that point, Makahiki had ended and a kapu (rule) that forbade entrance to the bay was being enforced. In respect for this kapu, the Hawaiians confiscated the British shore boat. The British responded by attempting to kidnap the Hawaiian chief Kalaniopu'u. They planned to use the chief as hostage until their boat was returned. This attempt was Cook's fatal mistake: he was killed by a group of Hawaiians as soon as he reached the shore.

After Cook's death in 1779, a young Big Island ali'i named Kamehameha was inspired to seize a British ship. With the cannon and guns on the ship, he was able to obtain control of the entire Hawaiian Island chain. Under Kamehameha's rule, Hawaii became an organized sovereignty for the first time, and was recognized by the world as such. The king built his court on the Big Island and established a system of trade and taxation. As the islands were forced to become more and more involved with trade in the western world, it became increasingly difficult to preserve Hawaiian culture. Kamehameha managed to maintain the delicate balance until his death in 1819.

The island population had been fairly small to begin with, numbering about 300,000. After the arrival of the westerners, disease ran rampant on the islands, killing off all but about 50,000 people by the year 1880. As the population diminished, so did the strength of the Hawaiian nation.

In the 1840s, an attempt was made by the British Consul to seize control of the Hawaiian Island chain. Although British government changed their position, thereby rendering the attempt unsuccessful, this event raised the issue of land ownership on the Islands. Foreigners decided that the time had come to claim their piece of paradise. Up until that time, the Hawaiians had measured land in terms of its resources. In order to qualify as an ahupua'a (the Hawaiian unit of measurement), the land had to contain timber, fresh water, farmland and water for fishing. This concept was beyond European understanding, and they set about divvying up the land as they saw fit.

In 1845, an event later known as the Great Mahele occurred. This event surrendered all lands for redistribution: a third was to go to royalty, another third to the government, and the last third was to be divided amongst the people. By 1850, land ownership rights were given to any foreigner who cared to purchase them. The majority of the land held by the island people passed into the hands of the foreigners in the course of just a few decades.

Once the Hawaiians began to lose control of the land, it was a slippery slope downward to the total decline of their island culture. The last queen, Liliuokalani, was forced to relinquish power into the hands of the businessmen who had won control of the sugar industry. Annexation followed shortly thereafter: on August 12, 1898, Hawai'i became a territory of the United States. On July 27, 1959, Hawai'i became the 50th of the United States, with the Big Island constituting one of its four counties.

While much of the Big Island's culture was lost through the course of the past 200 years, recent times have seen a resurgence of interest in Hawaiiana. The dance, song and legend of ancient Hawaii have not yet been lost, although they no longer represent the beliefs of a nation. Perhaps more amazing than the perseverance of the Hawaiian people is the fact that, today, so many races live harmoniously in what was once a land of conflict.

Recommended tours

The Island of Hawaii is a land of contrasts. It is so large and so full of micro climates that visitors to one part of it may never even experience—-or even hear about—the other parts. With more than a dozen national and state parks, thousands of acres of untamed land and countless beaches, Hawaii offers a myriad of adventures for outdoor enthusiasts. However, unlike Molokai and Lanai, this island also has plenty of places to shop, dine and drink. Locals are quick to point out the island's inferiority to Maui in this regard, but visitors may be pleasantly surprised by what the Big Island has to offer.

Kilauea/Hawaii Volcanoes National Park The first-—and often the only-—formal tour that many visitors "do" when visiting the Big Island is "the volcano." The questions of which volcano should be "done" and what the doing entails seem self-explanatory to most tourists, but in fact, it is not quite that simple. There are actually four volcanoes on the island, two of them still active. Of the two volcanoes contained within Volcanoes National Park, the one that most people go to see is mighty Kilauea, one of the most volatile volcanoes in the world.

As to the question of what one should actually do in the park, well, that's entirely dependent on personal taste. Many people choose to take a guided or self-guided tour up to one of the viewing areas. Call the park at +1 808 985 6000 to find out about conditions beforehand. It's often possible to view lava spewing from the volcano. Sundown is the best time to view this; bring a flashlight and binoculars. People who want to see more of the lava action usually choose to book a heli-tour, which allows for a birds-eye view. There are several respected helicopter companies, including Blue Hawaiian and Safari Helicopters.

Hikers and mountain bikers will want to spend a bit more time in the park, exploring the many trails that are on site. Budding geologists and naturalists will want to visit the Jaggar Museum or the Kilauea Visitor Center to study the many exhibits and informational displays relating to the park.

The works of local artists can always be seen at the art center and its gallery, located in Kilauea Lodge. Volcano Village is a great place to wander and browse. Take a quick side trip to nearby Volcano Winery, where local vintages are available to taste.

Kohala Coast This tour is best started in Kona, although it's possible to drive from Hilo to Waimea and down the coast.

Starting from Kailua-Kona, take the main highway north. It's a quick, 15-minute drive up the highway to the Kona Coast State Park just past the airport. The terrain is fascinating; an endless expanse of black lava rock, oddly tattooed with cryptic messages formed of white stones. The ocean is visible in the distance, although there are only a few points that have beach access. A few minutes past the main park entrance is the Ka'upulehu area, where the Four Seasons is located. Chances are, by the time you see it, you'll already have passed it. Keep going.

The spot to really keep an eye out for is 20 minutes farther down the road. It's the lovely Waikoloa Beach Resort, home to an upscale shopping mall, a couple of beaches, world-class golf courses, a half-dozen fine hotels and a dolphin habitat. Perhaps the best place to stop is the Hilton Waikoloa because it is here that the dolphin habitat is located. Kings' Shops, Waikoloa's best shopping mall, is nearby.

Many people find the journey from Kailua to Waikoloa to be interesting enough to fill an entire day. If you want to push onward, however, you'll reach the two most exclusive resort districts on the island. The first is Mauna Loa. The second is Mauna Kea. Upon glimpsing either resort, you'll immediately understand why this area is named the Gold Coast. The resorts are like magical oases, seemingly created by fairies or genies in the middle of a vast expanse of unforgiving black lava rock. After ambling through the Mauna Lani Bay Resort or the Fairmont Orchid at Mauna Lani, enjoy award-winning cuisine at one of the many fine restaurants.

Hamakua Coast Scenic and secluded, the North-eastern coast of the Big Island of Hawai'i is a great place to explore by car. Starting from Hilo Town, the first attraction you'll reach is Wailuku River State Park, home of Boiling Pots and Rainbow Falls. These picturesque falls, famed for the mist that gathers prisms around the base, are only a short distance from the main road. Further along the highway is the turnoff for Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden. The drive to the garden is four miles, but it's a twisty, slow road that not everyone chooses to follow.

Just a few more miles down this famed scenic highway, you'll find the turn-off that leads to ‘Akaka Falls State Park. This is a path to follow. The stunning 420-foot (128-meter) cascade is among the best (and most easily accessible) major waterfalls in the state. If you missed the botanical gardens, there is another chance to see blooms en masse at the World Gardens, located a few miles north of ‘Akaka Falls.

There are dozens of other enjoyable ways to spend a day on this island. Shop Kailua, snorkel in the marine preserve at Kealakekua, take a historic tour of Hilo Town or ride the trails at one of the many ranches. Don't forget the most popular nighttime attraction: stargazing atop Mauna Kea.

If you want to get a complete picture of the activities available on the Big Island, stock up on pamphlets at the airport tourism desk, talk to the Big Island Visitor's Bureau. For private tours around the Big Island, try Native Guide Hawaii (+1 808 982 7575 / http://www.nativeguidehawaii.com/).

Transportation

On the Big Island, you will need a car if you plan to explore (be sure to get four wheel drive if you're headed off the main roads). You can book a rental car at the airport or arrange to pick up at the airport from the car rental agency of your choice. Just be sure to check your rental agreement for restrictions on where you can drive. Many companies do not allow you to take rentals on the steeper, winding roads.

If you choose not to rent a car, there are airport transfers, taxis and public transportation options available. You can also book hotel transfers with a WestJet Vacations representative.

Travel requirements

Arrival

Kona International Airport is the main airport in Hawaii. Located on 3,450 acres of land, you'll know you're landing when you see this airport's 11,000 feet of runway.

Before you depart Canada, you will first go through security and U.S. Customs. Once you land in Kona, proceed to the baggage claim area to pick up your belongings. If you have pre-booked a transfer or an orchid lei greeting & transfer with WestJet Vacations, please see the Diamond Head Vacations representative in the baggage claim area.

If you've rented a car, you can catch shuttles to the car rental depots from the centre median outside the baggage claim area. Each car rental company has a designated pick up area and shuttles operate continuously. Taxis are located curbside, fronting baggage claim areas A and B. See the taxi dispatchers for service.

Departure

Located just seven miles from Kailua and 25 miles from Waikoloa, you’ll be able to quickly and easily get back to Kona International by shuttle or taxi.

Once there, smiling WestJetters will be ready to assist you at the international check-in counters. These counters open three hours prior to departure and close 15 minutes after your flight is scheduled to depart. You can also check in and select your seats ahead of time using WestJet's Web check-in service.

What makes it different?

The Big Island is just that – big. In fact, it's so big you could fit all the other Hawaiian Islands inside it…twice! But it's not just big in circumference; it's also high. The island is made up of five volcanoes. Two of them (Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea) are more than 4,000 metres in altitude. Interestingly, if you measure from the sea floor, Mauna Kea is actually the tallest mountain in the world.

The Big Island is home to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, a stunning (and very active) volcanic area. The Park covers 13,500 sq. km and is accessible by road, or via the 240 km of hiking trails.

The unique soil and terrain of the island make it ideal for producing the smooth Kona coffee beans exported all over the world. The moist, mild climate is also perfect for flowers (the Big Island is a major exporter of orchids).

The Big Island is also known as The Adventure Island. Many people consider the Big Island the top sport-fishing destination in the Pacific, if not the world. It is also considered the golf capital of the state, with about 20 unique courses taking advantage of the stunning scenery.

In addition to spectacular earth, the Big Island is also known for amazing skies. The summit of Mauna Kea houses some of the world's largest telescopes, with a combined light-gathering power 60 times stronger than the Hubble Space Telescope.

Traditional Hawaiian culture is also strong on the Big Island. Here, you'll find the state's largest petroglyph field of more than 23,000 rock carvings. And since the Big Island was the seat of power during the rule of King Kamehameha, you can also find the ruins of numerous temples, village sites and extensive fish ponds.

Whether it's golf, natural wonders or five-star resorts, everything on the Big Island is bigger and many say better than anywhere else.

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Pricing on this page is based on previous data collection (cache). Although we strive to be as
accurate as possible, up-to-date pricing and inventory will be provided upon your selection of a vacation package.

Round-trip from select cities. Other departure cities and dates available, and prices
to be as may be higher.

Price is per guest, based on double adult occupancy unless otherwise specified.

Taxes for U.S., Mexico and Caribbean destinations can fluctuate based on exchange rate.

Advertised destinations change frequently. Although efforts are made to represent the general
region being advertised, the images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not accurately reflect the product being advertised.

Special offers highlighted on the dynamic package pricing may not be available on advertised departure dates. Special offers may include additional savings, resort credits, kids stay free and more. These offers will have their own travel terms, please visit WestJet Vacations offers page for additional offer details.